Direct oral anticoagulants in patients with VTE and cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Novel Anticoagulants for the Management of Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

Cancer patients face a four- to sevenfold higher risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) than the general population. Novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) provide convenient alternatives to traditional therapies.

METHODS

We performed a systematic literature search across PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, targeting studies that examined the use of NOACs in cancer-associated VTE. The search included randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Selected studies compared NOACs with low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) or vitamin K antagonists (VKA) in cancer patients diagnosed with VTE. A meta-analysis using a random-effects model was applied to estimate pooled effect sizes for outcomes.

RESULTS

In this meta-analysis, we included 12 RCTs. Results showed NOACs were more effective than LMWH in preventing VTE recurrence (RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.52-0.83, p = 0.0004). Compared with VKAs, NOACs showed no significant difference (RR 0.63, 95% CI 0.34-1.15, p = 0.13). However, this finding is limited by the small patient sample. Major bleeding outcomes were similar between NOACs and LMWH/VKAs (RR 1.24, 95% CI 0.85-1.80, p = 0.28; RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.39-1.53, p = 0.46, respectively). Meta-regression analysis indicated a statistically significant positive correlation between mortality and major bleeding events when comparing NOACs with LMWH (p = 0.049). There was no significant difference in all-cause mortality between patients treated with NOACs and those treated with LMWH (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.92-1.18, p = 0.54) or VKAs (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.72-1.23, p = 0.65).

CONCLUSION

Meta-analysis shows NOACs, especially factor Xa inhibitors, reduce VTE recurrence in cancer patients more effectively than LMWH. Comparison between NOACs and VKAs is inconclusive due to limited patient data. Further research is needed to assess NOACs' efficacy and safety against VKAs.

Extending venous thromboembolism secondary prevention with apixaban in cancer patients. The EVE trial

BACKGROUND

Cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE) management guideline recommendations include continued therapeutic anticoagulation while active cancer persists. The Federal Drug Administration label for apixaban for secondary VTE prevention includes a dose reduction to 2.5 mg twice daily after 6 months of treatment.

OBJECTIVES

The study's purpose was to determine whether this dose reduction is advisable for cancer-associated VTE.

METHODS

A randomized, double-blind trial compared apixaban 2.5 mg with 5 mg twice daily for 12 months among cancer patients with VTE who had completed 6 to 12 months of anticoagulation therapy. The primary outcome was combined major bleeding plus clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding.

RESULTS

Of 370 patients recruited, 360 were included in the intention-to-treat analyses. Major plus clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding occurred in 16 of 179 patients (8.9%) in the apixaban 2.5 mg group compared with 22 of 181 patients (12.2%) in the 5 mg group (hazard ratio [HR], 0.72; 95% CI, 0.38-1.37; P = .39). Major bleeding occurred in 2.8% of the apixaban 2.5 mg group and in 2.2% of the 5 mg group (HR, 1.26; 95% CI, 0.34-4.66; P = .73). Recurrent VTE or arterial thrombosis occurred in 9 of 179 patients (5.0%) in the apixaban 2.5 mg group and 9 of 181 patients (5.0%) in the 5 mg group (HR, 1.0; 95% CI, 0.40-2.53; P = 1.00). All-cause mortality rates were similar between groups, 13% vs 12% (HR, 1.14; 95% CI, 0.63-2.04; P = .67).

CONCLUSION

For secondary prevention of cancer-associated VTE, apixaban 2.5 mg compared with 5 mg twice daily did not lower combined bleeding events (EVE trial NCT03080883).

The Role of Direct Oral Anticoagulants in the Treatment of Cancer-Associated Venous Thromboembolism: Review by Middle East and North African Experts

Venous thromboembolism is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with active cancer who require anticoagulation treatment. Choice of anticoagulant is based on careful balancing of the risks and benefits of available classes of treatment: vitamin K antagonists, low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Results from randomized controlled trials have shown the consistent efficacy of DOACs versus LMWH in the treatment of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, increased major gastrointestinal bleeding was observed for edoxaban and rivaroxaban, but not apixaban, compared with LMWH dalteparin. Most guidelines recommend DOACs for the treatment of cancer-associated VTE in patients without gastrointestinal or genitourinary cancer, and with considerations for renal impairment and drug-drug interactions. These updates represent a major paradigm shift for clinicians in the Middle East and North Africa. The decision to prescribe a DOAC for a patient with cancer is not always straightforward, particularly in challenging subgroups of patients with an increased risk of bleeding. In patients with gastrointestinal malignancies who are at high risk of major gastrointestinal bleeds, apixaban may be the preferred DOAC; however, caution should be exercised if patients have upper or unresected lower gastrointestinal tumors. In patients with gastrointestinal malignancies and upper or unresected lower gastrointestinal tumors, LMWH may be preferred. Vitamin K antagonists should be used only when DOACs and LMWH are unavailable or unsuitable. In this review, we discuss the overall evidence for DOACs in the treatment of cancer-associated VTE and provide treatment suggestions for challenging subgroups of patients with cancer associated VTE.

Catheter and Non-Catheter-Related Venous Thromboembolism in Cancer Patients: Survival, Anticoagulation Efficacy, and Safety

PURPOSE

To investigate the differences in survival after venous thromboembolism (VTE) and anticoagulation efficacy and safety between catheter (CRVTE) and non-catheter-related VTE (NCRVTE) in cancer patients.

METHODS

A retrospective research was conducted, and consecutive cancer (digestive, respiratory, genitourinary, blood and lymphatic, and the other cancers) patients with VTE were enrolled. The anticoagulation therapies included low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), warfarin, new type of direct oral anticoagulants (NDOACs), LMWH combined with warfarin, and LMWH combined with NDOACs. Data were collected from the electronic medical record database of our hospital and were analyzed accordingly by Kruskal-Wallis H Test, Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, Logistic regressions, Kaplan-Meier analysis, and Cox regressions.

RESULTS

263 patients were included, median age in years (interquartile range) was 64(56-71) and 60.5% were male. VTE recurrence rate was 16.7% in CRVTE group which was significantly lower than 34.8% in NCRVTE group (P = .032). Heart diseases were independently associated with VTE recurrence (P = .025). Kaplan-Meier survival estimates at 1, 2, and 3 years for CRVTE group were 62.5%, 60.0%, and 47.5%, respectively, compared with 47.9% (P = .130), 38.7% (P = .028), and 30.1% (P = .046), respectively, for NCRVTE group. Cox regression showed surgery (P = .003), anticoagulation therapy types (P = .009), VTE types (P = .006) and cancer types (P = .039) were independent prognostic factors for 3-year survival after VTE. Nonmajor and major bleeding were not significantly different (P = .417). Anticoagulation therapy types were independently associated with the bleeding events (P = .030).

CONCLUSIONS

Cancer patients with CRVTE potentially have a better anticoagulation efficacy and survival compared to NCRVTE, and the anticoagulation safety seems no significant difference.

Unmet clinical needs in the prevention and treatment of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis, is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with cancer. Based on accumulating evidence, the prophylaxis and treatment of cancer-associated VTE have been changed over the years. Recently, the introduction in clinical practice of the direct oral anticoagulants has radically changed the management of cancer-associated VTE for their easier use and non-inferior efficacy-safety profile compared to low-molecular-weight heparins. However, the heterogeneity of the cancer population in terms of site, type and stage of the malignancy, the presence of comorbidities, and the variability in cancer treatment and prognosis represent major challenges in the management of VTE in patients with cancer. In the present review, we will discuss clinical questions that represent unsolved issues in the setting of cancer-associated VTE and provide an overview on recent evidence on this topic: primary prophylaxis in ambulatory cancer patients treated with chemotherapy and in cancer surgical patients, need of long-term anticoagulation in cancer patients, treatment of VTE in cancer patients at increased bleeding risk and in special categories such as incidental VTE, splanchnic vein thrombosis or catheter-related thrombosis.

Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin Versus Warfarin in Adult Cancer Patients as a Precision Medicine for Thrombosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a condition often seen in patients diagnosed with cancer and is recognized as a predictor of poor outcomes in these patients. The probability of VTE recurring is generally higher in people with cancer than in those without; hence, addressing this issue is essential when making healthcare decisions. Therefore, our systematic review was primarily designed to compare low-weight- molecular heparin (LMWH) to warfarin in reducing recurrent VTE among cancer patients. However, other outcomes were also evaluated, such as mortality and bleeding events observed more in cancer patients. The selection of relevant articles was carried out using a database search and a manual search, which involved reviewing reference lists of articles eligible for inclusion in the current review. The methodological quality of each included study was then assessed using Cochrane's risk of bias tool in the Review Manager software (RevMan 5.4.1). Additionally, pooled results were examined using the Review Manager software and presented as forest plots. Our search of electronic databases elicited a total of 2163 articles, of which only six were deemed eligible for inclusion and analysis. Data pooled from the six studies demonstrated the effectiveness of LMWH in minimizing the reoccurrence of VTE over warfarin [risk ratio (RR): 0.67; 95% CI: 0.47 - 0.95; p = 0.03]. However, LMWH had a similar effect statistically as warfarin on the major bleeding events (RR: 1.05; 95% CI: 0.62 - 1.77; p = 0.85), minor bleeding events (RR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.54 - 1.20; p = 0.28), and all-cause mortality (RR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.88 - 1.13; p = 0.99). While LMWH demonstrated its effectiveness in minimizing the incidence of VTE recurrence over warfarin in cancer patients, it had no statistical difference in terms of mortality or bleeding events when compared to warfarin. Based on our findings, we recommend that LMWH continues to be used as a first-line treatment regimen to mitigate recurrent VTE in cancer patients.

Direct oral anticoagulant drugs for the management of venous thromboembolism

ABSTRACT

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are effective for both prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and have favorable safety in comparison with warfarin. Although drug-drug interactions with DOACs are not as frequent as with warfarin, certain drugs can interfere with DOAC metabolism, affect DOAC efficacy, and potentially cause adverse reactions when used in combination with DOACs. The NP must determine which agent is most beneficial for the individual patient with VTE based on a number of factors. A knowledge of periprocedural management of DOACs will assist the NP in providing a smooth transition for patients undergoing minor and major procedures and surgeries.

Direct-Acting Oral Anticoagulant Therapy in Cancer Patients-A Review

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is an important aspect in cancer patients. There are various pharmacological methods used for thrombotic event treatment. DOACs (direct-acting oral anticoagulants) are gaining popularity among both physicians and researchers and are slowly starting to replace VKAs (vitamin K antagonists), thus becoming a substitute or alternative option for LMWHs (low-molecular-weight heparins). In this article, we present DOACs' main therapeutic advantages and disadvantages in patients with cancer. The only major concern with using DOACs is the higher risk of bleeding; however, there are discrepancies in this matter. There are still some types of cancer for which DOACs are not recommended. Specific cancer types may influence the efficacy of DOAC therapy. Additionally, race and ethnicity may affect therapy in cancer patients with DOACs. A sizeable number of clinical trials are focused on comparing DOACs with other anticoagulants. The current guidelines of different scientific associations are not unanimous in their DOAC assessments. There is still a need for more evidence of DOACs' potential advantages over other methods of anticoagulation in cancer patients to facilitate their position in this recommendation. This literature review presents the current state of knowledge about the use of DOACs in patients with neoplastic growth.

The mechanism and treatment of targeted anti-tumour drugs induced cardiotoxicity

As the intensive anti-tumour therapy and combination of multiple anti-tumour drugs, cardiotoxicity events caused by anti-tumour drugs have also increased significantly, and the incidence of cardiotoxicity also increased with survival time. Different types of anti-tumour drugs could cause all kinds of cardiotoxicity which increase the difficulties in treatment and even live threatening. In this review, we concentrated in the targeted anti-tumour drugs such as human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) inhibitors, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), and proteasome inhibitors (Pls). The molecular mechanism of how these drugs induce cardiotoxicity is introduced which includes several signal pathways. These drugs induced cardiotoxicity involved heart failure, hypertension, atherosis and thrombosis, QT interval prolongation, and myocarditis. Some of the cardiotoxicity could be moderate and reversible but others could have happened severely.The aim of this review is to summarise the targeted anti-tumour drugs induced cardiotoxicity and treatment strategies.

Net clinical benefit of DOACs vs. usual anticoagulation treatment in venous thromboembolism and active cancer: systematic review and meta-analysis

Patients with active cancer are at high risk of recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE). Usual treatment includes low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), while vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) have also been used as substitutes for LMWH. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are considered a beneficial alternative to the usual treatment but are accompanied by an increased rate of bleeding compared to LMWH. We conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the benefits and harms under a common denomination, namely the net clinical benefit (NCB), between DOACs and usual anticoagulation. The primary outcome was NCB-1, defined as non-fatal VTE, major non-fatal bleedings, and all-cause mortality). Co-primary outcomes were 1) NCB-2 (i.e., NCB-1 and clinically relevant non-major bleedings) and 2) NCB-3 (i.e., fatal or non-fatal VTE and major bleedings). A random-effects model was used to calculate outcome risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews identification number CRD42021284238. We selected 8 studies (n = 4,4461 patients; mean follow-up, 6 months). The NCB-1 and -2 were not different between DOACs and usual anticoagulation, while the NCB-3 showed a reduction of 28% (95% CI, 10-42%), favoring DOACs. Recurrent VTE was reduced by 40% (95% CI, 25-53%) with DOACs than the usual treatment. Different bleeding outcomes and all-cause mortality were not different between treatments. All primary outcomes did not differ between DOACs and LMWH, while NCB-2 and NCB-3 were reduced with DOACs than VKAs. The NCB of DOACs was similar or more favorable to usual anticoagulation in patients with active cancer due to a substantial reduction of VTE and no bleeding excess.

Safe and effective treatment of venous Thromboembolism associated with Cancer: focus on direct Oral Anticoagulants in Asian patients

Cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) poses a significant disease burden and the incidence in Asian populations is increasing. Anticoagulation is the cornerstone of treatment, but can be challenging due to the high bleeding risk in some cancers and the high risk of recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with malignancies. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are well established as first-choice treatments for VTE in non-cancer patients, offering a more convenient and less invasive treatment option than low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). Asian patients have exhibited comparable efficacy and safety outcomes with other races in trials of DOACs for VTE in the general population. Although no specific data are available in Asian patients with CAT, results from randomized controlled trials of apixaban, edoxaban, or rivaroxaban versus the LMWH, dalteparin, indicate that DOACs are a reasonable alternative to LMWH for anticoagulation in Asian patients with CAT. This is further supported by analyses of real-world data in Asian populations demonstrating the efficacy and safety of DOACs in Asian patients with CAT. Apixaban, edoxaban, or rivaroxaban are recommended in the most recently updated international guidelines as first-line therapy for CAT in patients without gastrointestinal or genitourinary cancers and at low risk of bleeding. An increased risk of major gastrointestinal bleeding was evident with edoxaban or rivaroxaban, but not apixaban, versus dalteparin in the clinical trials, suggesting that apixaban could be a safe alternative to LMWH in patients with gastrointestinal malignancies. Determining the optimal anticoagulant therapy for patients with CAT requires careful consideration of bleeding risk, tumor type, renal function, drug-drug interactions, financial costs, and patients' needs and preferences.

Multidisciplinary Care for the Prevention and Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with Cancer-Associated Thrombosis (CAT): Impact of Educational Interventions on CAT-Related Events and on Patients' and Clinicians' Awareness

Cancer is a leading cause of death. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is an often-overlooked cause of morbidity and mortality in cancer patients that can be readily prevented and treated. Actions are needed to reduce the morbidity and mortality of patients with cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT). There is a need to increase awareness of the impact of CAT on cancer patients' morbidity and mortality, on their quality of life and to understand the importance of more effective preventions and treatments of VTE in cancer patients. Moreover, it is of great importance to systematically assess the risk of VTE in regard to patients, cancer and treatment-related factors. Unfortunately, there are unmet clinical needs in the prevention and treatment of cancer-associated VTE. In this review, we discuss an action plan to ensure an increased awareness of and education on the issues that need to be addressed in order to improve the provision of appropriate prevention, early diagnosis and effective and safe treatment of VTE to all cancer patients and, ultimately, to reduce morbidity and mortality.

New Oral Anticoagulants Open New Horizons for Cancer Patients with Venous Thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, decreased quality of life, and higher economic burden in patients with cancer. Currently, the treatment of VTE in patients with cancer is particularly challenging. For many years, low molecular weight heparin (LMWHs) has been the standard for the treatment of cancer-associated VTE. Recently, the introduction of new oral anticoagulants (NOACs) may offer an oral anticoagulant option for some patients with cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) as a growing body of literature supports the use of NOACs in the setting of CAT. With the use of NOAC as a new option in the management of CAT, clinicians now face several choices for the individual cancer patient with VTE. We need a more in-depth understanding of the drug properties, efficacy and safety, economic analysis that allows us to choose the most appropriate treatment for each patient. In the review, we will present an overview of CAT management, discuss the available evidence, economic costs for NOACs in the treatment of CAT, and seek to provide the best range of treatments for cancer patients.

Moderne Antikoagulation mit FXa-Inhibitoren in der Onkologie: Ist die gastrointestinale Blutungsrate (mit)-entscheidend?

Das erhöhte Thrombose- und Blutungsrisiko bei aktiver Tumorerkrankung wird als sog. „thrombo-hämorrhagisches Syndrom“ bezeichnet, welches hohe Anforderungen an die Antikoagulation stellt. Aktuell liegen 4 randomisierte, prospektive Studien zum Einsatz von neuen, nicht Vitamin K-abhängigen oralen Antikoagulantien (NOAK) zur Behandlung von in der Onkologie aufgetretenen venösen Thromboembolien (VTE) vor. Dabei wurden die FXa-Inhibitoren Rivaroxaban, Edoxaban und zweimal Apixaban jeweils in einzelnen Studien gegenüber dem Standardtherapeutikum Dalteparin eingesetzt. Da es keinen direkten Head-to-Head-Vergleich der genannten FXa-Inhibitoren innerhalb einer Studie gibt, wurde zu jedem NOAK die jeweils größte Studie – stets verglichen gegenüber Dalteparin – ausgewertet. Die Studien wurden bzgl. ihrer Wirksamkeit, Sicherheit, fataler Blutungsraten, dem Risiko für gastrointestinale Blutungen (GIB) und sonstiger Unterschiede anhand deskriptiver Statistik analysiert. Unter Dalteparin ergab sich eine mittlere VTE-Rezidivrate von ca. 9% bei einem 6-monatigen Behandlungszeitraum. Alle 3 FXa-Inhibitoren waren gegenüber Dalteparin bezüglich der Wirksamkeit nicht unterlegen. Die VTE-Rezidivrate war bei mit Edoxaban und Apixaban behandelten Patienten um – 2,3% und bei Rivaroxaban um – 5,0% niedriger.

Bei der Sicherheit fanden sich – jeweils gegenüber Dalteparin – für Rivaroxaban und Edoxaban eine erhöhte Rate an schweren Blutungen (jeweils +2,4%); insbesondere war hierbei die Zahl GIB deutlich erhöht. Dagegen war für Apixaban die Zahl schwerer Blutungen, wie auch für verschiedene Blutungstypen inkl. GIB, nicht erhöht. In der Apixabanstudie war insgesamt die Rate von schweren GIB, die ca. 50% aller schweren Blutungen ausmachten, und die der klinisch-relevanten nicht schweren Blutungen, am niedrigsten. Die FXa-Inhibitoren sind der Standardtherapie mit Dalteparin in der VTE-Rezidivrate bei onkologischen Patienten nicht unterlegen. Die GIB-Rate scheint ein wichtiger prädiktiver Faktor für die Sicherheit dieser Substanzgruppe zu sein, sodass Tumorlokalisation, gastrointestinale Risikofaktoren und andere individuelle Kriterien in Zukunft stärker bei der Therapieentscheidung für oder gegen einen FXa-Inhibitor berücksichtigt werden sollten.

Efficacy and Safety of Edoxaban in Cancer-Associated Venous Thromboembolism: A Real World Retrospective Study

Introduction  Few data exist on the use of edoxaban in cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE) outside of clinical trials. Aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics and outcomes of these patients in a real world clinical setting. Methods  We retrospectively analyzed the characteristics of patients with cancer-associated VTE who were prescribed edoxaban. Follow-up at 3, 6, and 12 months was performed: VTE recurrences, bleedings, mortality, cancer progression and treatment, edoxaban interruption and its reason were assessed. Results  Fifty-four patients, 38 females (70.4%), mean age 71 ± 14 years, were enrolled. In 38 patients (70.4%), the episode of VTE was the first one, in 28 (51.8%) it was an isolated deep vein thrombosis (DVT), in 13 (24.1%) a pulmonary embolism (PE) associated with DVT, in 13 (24.1%) an isolated PE. Median time between cancer and VTE diagnosis was 6 (interquartile range [IQR] 2-47) months. Median time between VTE diagnosis and edoxaban prescription was 36 (IQR 7-117) days. At 3, 6, and 12 months the incidence of all-cause mortality was 16.6, 22.2, and 38.8%, that of VTE recurrence 1.8, 1.8, and 3.7%, and that of major bleeding 7.4, 9.2, and 12.9%, respectively. No bleeding was fatal. Of the 33 patients alive at 12 months, 32 (96.9%) were still on edoxaban therapy, in seven (21.2%) cancer was in progression. Conclusion  Our study, conducted on a real world population of patients with cancer-associated VTE, confirms the results of randomized controlled clinical trials, and supports the use of edoxaban as effective and safe treatment in this context.

Dramatic Response to Alectinib in a Critically Ill Elderly Patient with Lung Adenocarcinoma Due to Trousseau Syndrome and Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation

Lung cancer complicated with Trousseau syndrome (TS) or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) has a severe prognosis. We herein report an elderly lung cancer patient who presented with a critically ill condition due to concomitant TS and DIC and responded dramatically to alectinib. There are no rules regarding treatment indications based on the age or severity of critically ill patients. If the patient's cancer cells are positive for anaplastic lymphoma kinase rearrangement, alectinib is worthwhile to administer, even in a critically ill condition. In our patient, anticoagulation failed to suppress the TS complications. We also report how to prevent the recurrence of TS.

Direct Oral Anticoagulants for the Treatment of Cancer-Associated Venous Thromboembolism: A Latin American Perspective

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with cancer. On the basis of results from randomized controlled trials, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are now recommended for the treatment of cancer-associated VTE. The decision to use a DOAC requires consideration of bleeding risk, particularly in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies, the cost-benefit and convenience of oral therapy, and patient preference. While efficacy with apixaban, edoxaban, and rivaroxaban versus dalteparin has been consistent in the treatment of cancer-associated VTE, heterogeneity is evident with respect to major GI bleeding, with an increased risk with edoxaban and rivaroxaban but not apixaban. Although cost and accessibility vary in different countries of Latin America, DOACs should be considered for the long-term treatment of cancer-associated VTE in all patients who are likely to benefit. Apixaban may be the preferred DOAC in patients with GI malignancies and LMWH may be preferred for patients with upper or unresected lower GI tumors. Vitamin K antagonists should only be used for anticoagulation when DOACs and low molecular weight heparin are inaccessible or unsuitable.

The Role of Factor Xa-Independent Pathway and Anticoagulant Therapies in Cancer-Related Stroke

Background: The optimal strategy for stroke prevention in cancer patients is unknown. We compared the underlying mechanisms of coagulopathy and the effects of anticoagulants in patients with active cancer and atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 46 consecutive patients with embolic stroke of unknown source and active cancer (cancer stroke). We consecutively screened patients with cancer patients without stroke (n = 29), AF stroke (n = 52), and healthy subjects (n = 28), which served as controls. Patients with cancer stroke were treated with either enoxaparin (a low-molecular-weight heparin) or a factor Xa inhibitor, and those with AF stroke were treated with factor Xa inhibitors. D-dimer, factor Xa, and circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA), a marker of neutrophil extracellular traposis, were measured at both before and after anticoagulation. Results: In AF stroke, factor Xa activity and cfDNA and D-dimer levels were decreased by treatment with factor Xa inhibitors. In contrast, in cancer stroke, factor Xa activity was decreased, D-dimer levels were unchanged, and cfDNA levels were increased by treatment with factor Xa inhibitors. In cancer stroke patients treated with enoxaparin, D-dimer levels were decreased (p = 0.011) and cfDNA levels were unchanged. Conclusion: The anticoagulation effects of factor Xa inhibitors differed between cancer stroke and AF stroke.

Effect of testing for cancer on cancer- or venous thromboembolism (VTE)-related mortality and morbidity in people with unprovoked VTE

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a collective term for two conditions: deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). A proportion of people with VTE have no underlying or immediately predisposing risk factors and the VTE is referred to as unprovoked. Unprovoked VTE can often be the first clinical manifestation of an underlying malignancy. This has raised the question of whether people with an unprovoked VTE should be investigated for an underlying cancer. Treatment for VTE is different in cancer and non-cancer patients and a correct diagnosis would ensure that people received the optimal treatment for VTE to prevent recurrence and further morbidity. Furthermore, an appropriate cancer diagnosis at an earlier stage could avoid the risk of cancer progression and lead to improvements in cancer-related mortality and morbidity. This is the third update of the review first published in 2015.

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether testing for undiagnosed cancer in people with a first episode of unprovoked VTE (DVT of the lower limb or PE) is effective in reducing cancer- or VTE-related mortality and morbidity and to determine which tests for cancer are best at identifying treatable cancers early.

SEARCH METHODS

The Cochrane Vascular Information Specialist searched the Cochrane Vascular Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL databases and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and ClinicalTrials.gov trials registers to 5 May 2021. We also undertook reference checking to identify additional studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised trials in which people with an unprovoked VTE were allocated to receive specific tests for identifying cancer or clinically indicated tests only were eligible for inclusion.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected studies, assessed risk of bias and extracted data. We assessed the certainty of the evidence using GRADE criteria. We resolved any disagreements by discussion. The main outcomes of interest were all-cause mortality, cancer-related mortality and VTE-related mortality.

MAIN RESULTS

No new studies were identified for this 2021 update. In total, four studies with 1644 participants are included. Two studies assessed the effect of extensive tests including computed tomography (CT) scanning versus tests at the physician's discretion, while the other two studies assessed the effect of standard testing plus positron emission tomography (PET)/CT scanning versus standard testing alone. For extensive tests including CT versus tests at the physician's discretion, the certainty of the evidence, as assessed according to GRADE, was low due to risk of bias (early termination of the studies). When comparing standard testing plus PET/CT scanning versus standard testing alone, the certainty of evidence was moderate due to a risk of detection bias. The certainty of the evidence was downgraded further as detection bias was present in one study with a low number of events. When comparing extensive tests including CT versus tests at the physician's discretion, pooled analysis on two studies showed that testing for cancer was consistent with either benefit or no benefit on cancer-related mortality (odds ratio (OR) 0.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.15 to 1.67; 396 participants; 2 studies; low-certainty evidence). One study (201 participants) showed that, overall, malignancies were less advanced at diagnosis in extensively tested participants than in participants in the control group. In total, 9/13 participants diagnosed with cancer in the extensively tested group had a T1 or T2 stage malignancy compared to 2/10 participants diagnosed with cancer in the control group (OR 5.00, 95% CI 1.05 to 23.76; low-certainty evidence). There was no clear difference in detection of advanced stages between extensive tests versus tests at the physician's discretion: one participant in the extensively tested group had stage T3 compared with four participants in the control group (OR 0.25, 95% CI 0.03 to 2.28; low-certainty evidence). In addition, extensively tested participants were diagnosed earlier than control group (mean: 1 month with extensive tests versus 11.6 months with tests at physician's discretion to cancer diagnosis from the time of diagnosis of VTE). Extensive testing did not increase the frequency of an underlying cancer diagnosis (OR 1.32, 95% CI 0.59 to 2.93; 396 participants; 2 studies; low-certainty evidence). Neither study measured all-cause mortality, VTE-related morbidity and mortality, complications of anticoagulation, adverse effects of cancer tests, participant satisfaction or quality of life. When comparing standard testing plus PET/CT screening versus standard testing alone, standard testing plus PET/CT screening was consistent with either benefit or no benefit on all-cause mortality (OR 1.22, 95% CI 0.49 to 3.04; 1248 participants; 2 studies; moderate-certainty evidence), cancer-related mortality (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.20 to 1.52; 1248 participants; 2 studies; moderate-certainty evidence) or VTE-related morbidity (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.48 to 2.17; 854 participants; 1 study; moderate-certainty evidence). Regarding stage of cancer, there was no clear difference for detection of early (OR 1.78, 95% 0.51 to 6.17; 394 participants; 1 study; low-certainty evidence) or advanced (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.14 to 7.17; 394 participants; 1 study; low-certainty evidence) stages of cancer. There was also no clear difference in the frequency of an underlying cancer diagnosis (OR 1.71, 95% CI 0.91 to 3.20; 1248 participants; 2 studies; moderate-certainty evidence). Time to cancer diagnosis was 4.2 months in the standard testing group and 4.0 months in the standard testing plus PET/CT group (P = 0.88). Neither study measured VTE-related mortality, complications of anticoagulation, adverse effects of cancer tests, participant satisfaction or quality of life.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Specific testing for cancer in people with unprovoked VTE may lead to earlier diagnosis of cancer at an earlier stage of the disease. However, there is currently insufficient evidence to draw definitive conclusions concerning the effectiveness of testing for undiagnosed cancer in people with a first episode of unprovoked VTE (DVT or PE) in reducing cancer- or VTE-related morbidity and mortality. The results could be consistent with either benefit or no benefit. Further good-quality large-scale randomised controlled trials are required before firm conclusions can be made.

Management of Cancer-Associated Thrombosis: Unmet Needs and Future Perspectives

Patients with cancer are at a high risk of symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE), which is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in this patient population. Increased risk of recurrent VTE and bleeding complications are two major challenges associated with therapeutic anticoagulation in these patients. Long-term therapy with low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs) has been the standard of care for the treatment of cancer-associated VTE given its favorable risk–benefit ratio in comparison with vitamin K antagonists. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), which offer the convenience of oral administration and have a rapid onset of action, have recently emerged as a new treatment option for patients with cancer-associated thrombosis (CT). Randomized clinical trial data with head-to-head comparisons between DOACs and LMWHs showed that overall, DOACs have a similar efficacy profile but a higher risk of bleeding was observed in some of these studies. This review aims to identify unmet needs in the treatment of CT. We discuss important considerations for clinicians tailoring anticoagulation (1) drug–drug interactions, (2) risk of bleeding (e.g., gastrointestinal bleeding), (3) thrombocytopenia, hematological malignancies, (4) metastatic or primary brain tumors, and (5) renal impairment. Additional research is warranted in several clinical scenarios to help clinicians on the best therapeutic approach.

Mortality associated with the use of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants in cancer patients: Dabigatran versus rivaroxaban

Objective

This study assesses the mortality outcomes of non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) in cancer patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) and atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

Medical records of cancer patients receiving NOACs for VTE or AF between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2016, were retrieved from Taiwan's National Health Institute Research Database. NOACs were compared using the inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) method. The primary outcome was cancer‐related death. Secondary outcomes were all‐cause mortality, major bleeding, and gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding.

Results

Among 202,754 patients who received anticoagulants, 3591 patients (dabigatran: 907; rivaroxaban: 2684) with active cancers were studied. Patients who received dabigatran were associated with lower risks of cancer‐related death at one year (HR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.54–0.93) and at the end of follow‐ups (HR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.64–0.98) compared with rivaroxaban. Patients who received dabigatran were also associated with lower risks of all‐cause mortality (HR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.67–0.97), major bleeding (HR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.47–0.88), and GI bleeding (HR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.39–0.84) at the end of follow‐ups compared with rivaroxaban.

Conclusion

Compared with rivaroxaban, the use of dabigatran may be associated with a lower risk of cancer‐related death and all‐cause mortality.

Second consensus document on diagnosis and management of acute deep vein thrombosis: updated document elaborated by the ESC Working Group on aorta and peripheral vascular diseases and the ESC Working Group on pulmonary circulation and right ventricular function

This consensus document is proposed to clinicians to provide the whole spectrum of deep vein thrombosis management as an update to the 2017 consensus document. New data guiding clinicians in indicating extended anticoagulation, management of patients with cancer, and prevention and management of post-thrombotic syndrome are presented. More data on benefit and safety of non-vitamin K antagonists oral anticoagulants are highlighted, along with the arrival of new antidotes for severe bleeding management.

Treatment of venous thromboembolism in patients with cancer: from clinical trials to real life

Approximately one-fifth of all cases of venous thromboembolism (VTE) are related to cancer. VTE complications may have a substantial impact on prognosis, quality of life and care in patients with cancer. Patients with cancer-related VTE are at increased risk of developing recurrent VTE compared to patients without cancer, but also have a higher risk of major bleeding. In the last years, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have been evaluated in a head-to-head comparison with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) in two randomized trials for the long-term treatment of VTE in patients with advanced cancer. The results of these trials show that DOACs have a similar efficacy profile, but probably higher risk of bleeding, compared to LMWH dalteparin. Because DOACs offer a simple oral treatment regimen without the need for anticoagulation monitoring, they could be attractive alternatives to LMWHs in these setting. The American Society of Clinical Oncology guidelines, published in August 2019, recommend LMWH, edoxaban and rivaroxaban as first-choice therapies for long-term anticoagulation in cancer patients with VTE. However, several practical issues should be considered concerning the long-term use of DOAC treatment in patients with cancer. Major concerns have been highlighted about the gastrointestinal bleeding risk in patients with gastrointestinal cancers and the potential drug-drug interactions in combination for some specific anticancer therapies. Several studies comparing DOACs with LMWH are currently ongoing to refine our knowledge concerning treatment with DOACs in patients with cancer-associated VTE.

Delayed anticoagulation in venous thromboembolism: Reasons and associated outcomes

OBJECTIVE

We assessed the number of cases with delayed anticoagulation initiation, explored the reasons for the delay, and its impact on outcome in patients with acute venous thromboembolism (VTE) treated in an organized setting of treatment initiation and continuous, prospective follow-up.

METHODS

Patients with anticoagulation initiation delay >24 hours were identified within the cohort of patients with acute VTE enrolled in the Mayo Clinic Venous Thromboembolism Registry between 2013 and 2020. The reasons for treatment delay were explored by reviewing the electronic database. VTE recurrence, all-cause mortality, major bleeding, and clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding (CRNMB) were compared to those with no anticoagulation delay.

RESULTS

Of 2378 patients with acute VTE, 100 (4.2%) experienced an anticoagulation delay. We identified seven reasons for treatment delays: deferring anticoagulation initiation to specialists (n = 38), thrombocytopenia (n = 10), planned or recent procedure (n = 16), active or recent bleeding (n = 12), missed diagnosis (n = 7), logistics (n = 6), and patient decision (n = 4). In seven cases, no reason was identified. We identified modifiable reasons for anticoagulation delay in 55%. At 90-day follow-up, patients with anticoagulation delay had a higher rate of mortality and major bleeding. VTE recurrence and CRNMB were not statistically different compared to those without anticoagulation delay. After adjustment for age, weight, and cancer, hazard ratios (HRs) for VTE recurrence and major bleeding remained elevated but not to a statistically significant level.

CONCLUSION

In the setting of a highly organized system of anticoagulation initiation, the incidence of treatment delay is low. Yet most delays could be avoided. A low number of cases provide insufficient power to evaluate the clinical consequences of anticoagulation initiation delay; however, elevated HR for VTE recurrence and major bleeding suggest association and need for further investigation.

Outpatient treatment of emergency department patients diagnosed with venous thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) includes the diagnosis of either deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and/or pulmonary embolism (PE). This review discusses an evidence-based approach to the outpatient treatment of VTE in the emergency care setting. Main findings: The majority of patients diagnosed with VTE in the acute care setting are at low risk for an adverse event. Outpatient treatment for patients deemed low-risk by validated clinical decision tools leads to safe, efficacious, patient-centered, and cost-effective care. From a patient perspective, outpatient treatment of VTE can been simplified by the use of direct oral anticoagulant (DOACs) medications, and is supported by clinical trial evidence, and clinical practice guidelines from international societies. Outpatient treatment of patients with DVT has been more widely accepted as a best practice, while adoption of outpatient treatment of low-risk patients with acute PE has lagged. Many acute care clinicians remain wary of discharging patients with PE, concerned about drug access, adherence, and follow-up. Patients with VTE should be risk stratified identically as emerging evidence has demonstrated efficacy and safety in the interdependence of acute care protocols for the outpatient treatment of low-risk DVT and PE. Clinicians who practice in the acute care setting should be comfortable with risk stratification, anticoagulation, and discharge of low-risk VTE.

Rivaroxaban for cancer-associated venous thromboembolism

All cancers can increase the risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE), and anticoagulants should be considered as an optimal treatment for patients suffering from cancer-associated VTE. However, there is still a debate about whether the new oral anticoagulant, rivaroxaban, can bring better efficacy and safety outcomes globally. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure for relevant published papers before 1 September 2019, with no language restrictions. The primary outcomes are defined as the recurrence of VTE. The secondary outcomes are defined as clinically relevant non-major bleeding, adverse major bleeding events, and all-cause of death. The data were analyzed by Stata with risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Four trials encompassing 1996 patients were included. Rivaroxaban reduced recurrent VTE with no significant difference (RR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.43-1.07). Similarly, there were no significant differences in adverse major bleeding events (RR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.37-2.00), clinically relevant non-major bleeding (RR = 1.24, 95% CI = 0.73-2.12) and all-cause mortality (RR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.40-1.44). In a selected study population of cancer patients with VTE, rivaroxaban is as good as other anticoagulants. Further, carefully designed randomized controlled trials should be performed to confirm these results.

Updated recommendations for the treatment of venous thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis, is a condition characterized by abnormal blood clot formation in the pulmonary arteries and the deep venous vasculature. It is often serious and sometimes even fatal if not promptly and appropriately treated. Moreover, the later consequences of VTE may result in reduced quality of life. The treatment of VTE depends on various factors, including the type, cause, and patient comorbidities. Furthermore, bleeding may occur as a side effect of VTE treatment. Thus, it is necessary to carefully weigh the benefits versus the risks of VTE treatment and to actively monitor patients undergoing treatment. Asian populations are known to have lower VTE incidences than Western populations, but recent studies have shown an increase in the incidence of VTE in Asia. A variety of treatment options are currently available owing to the introduction of direct oral anticoagulants. The current VTE treatment recommendation is based on evidence from previous studies, but it should be applied with careful consideration of the racial, genetic, and social characteristics in the Korean population.

American Society of Hematology 2021 guidelines for management of venous thromboembolism: prevention and treatment in patients with cancer

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication among patients with cancer. Patients with cancer and VTE are at a markedly increased risk for morbidity and mortality.

OBJECTIVE

These evidence-based guidelines of the American Society of Hematology (ASH) are intended to support patients, clinicians, and other health care professionals in their decisions about the prevention and treatment of VTE in patients with cancer.

METHODS

ASH formed a multidisciplinary guideline panel balanced to minimize potential bias from conflicts of interest. The guideline development process was supported by updated or new systematic evidence reviews. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to assess evidence and make recommendations.

RESULTS

Recommendations address mechanical and pharmacological prophylaxis in hospitalized medical patients with cancer, those undergoing a surgical procedure, and ambulatory patients receiving cancer chemotherapy. The recommendations also address the use of anticoagulation for the initial, short-term, and long-term treatment of VTE in patients with cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Strong recommendations include not using thromboprophylaxis in ambulatory patients receiving cancer chemotherapy at low risk of VTE and to use low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) for initial treatment of VTE in patients with cancer. Conditional recommendations include using thromboprophylaxis in hospitalized medical patients with cancer, LMWH or fondaparinux for surgical patients with cancer, LMWH or direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) in ambulatory patients with cancer receiving systemic therapy at high risk of VTE and LMWH or DOAC for initial treatment of VTE, DOAC for the short-term treatment of VTE, and LMWH or DOAC for the long-term treatment of VTE in patients with cancer.

Clinical controversies in the treatment of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism

Cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication of malignancy. Patients with cancer exhibit risk factors for both recurrent VTE and major or minor bleeding. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are an attractive treatment option; however, there is a lack of consensus among national guidelines for choice between DOACs and LMWH, agent selection, dosing strategy, and duration of anticoagulation. Characteristics of the thrombotic event, the malignancy, the patient, and the anticoagulant must be considered. A systematic search of online databases was performed to identify literature on the management of cancer-associated VTE. Multiple controversies remain surrounding the optimal treatment of cancer-associated VTE.

Rivaroxaban: Expanded Role in Cardiovascular Disease Management-A Literature Review

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are widely used for the prevention of stroke in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, treatment of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, and as prophylaxis after hip and knee surgery after approval by the Food and Drug Administration. In the last decade, DOACs were studied for various indications; this review is focused on rivaroxaban, a factor Xa inhibitor, which is used in an expanded evidence-based fashion for coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, heart failure, malignancy, and prophylaxis of deep venous thrombosis in acute medical illnesses.

Successful Treatment of Recurrent Thrombosis Associated with Malignancy with Apixaban and Follow-up for 1 Year

This case report aims to highlight a successful example of using novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs), such as apixaban, to prevent recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with solid-organ malignancy, as an alternative to low-molecular weight heparin (LMWH). Discussed is the case of a 67-year-old woman diagnosed with recurrent thrombosis in the upper-right limb and malignancy of right breast with metastasis to the axillary lymph nodes. Over a follow-up period of more than 1 year, there was no recurrence of VTE and D-dimer decreased, illuminating the possibility of apixaban as an alternative form of treatment for recurrent VTE in patients with malignancy. This appears to be one of the first case reports in Singapore.

Direct oral anticoagulants for the treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism in patients with cancer: current evidence

Venous thromboembolic disease (VTED) is a common and clinically important complication in patients with cancer, contributing to its mortality and morbidity. Direct oral anticoagulant agents (DOACs), including direct thrombin inhibitors and direct factor Xa inhibitors, are as effective as vitamin K antagonists for the treatment of VTED and are associated with less frequent and severe bleeding. They have advantages over low-molecular-weight heparin, but comparative long-term efficacy and safety data are lacking for these compounds. Recent randomized clinical trials suggest a role for DOACs in the treatment of VTED in patients with cancer. This review will discuss the existing evidence and future perspectives on the role of DOACs in the treatment of VTE based on the current evidence about their overall efficacy and safety and the limited information in patients with cancer; in addition, we will briefly review their pharmacokinetic properties with special reference to potential interactions.

Effectiveness and Safety of Apixaban, Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin, and Warfarin among Venous Thromboembolism Patients with Active Cancer: A U.S. Claims Data Analysis

Background  This study primarily evaluates the risk of recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) and major bleeding (MB) among patients with VTE and active cancer prescribed apixaban, low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), or warfarin, with claims data.

Methods  Four U.S. commercial insurance claims databases were used to identify patients with VTE and active cancer who initiated apixaban, LMWH, or warfarin within 30 days following the first VTE event. Stabilized inverse-probability treatment weighting (IPTW) was used to balance treatment cohorts. Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate risk of recurrent VTE and MB.

Results  All eligibility criteria were fulfilled by 3,393 apixaban, 6,108 LMWH, and 4,585 warfarin patients. After IPTW, all patient characteristics were balanced. When the follow-up was censored at 6 months, apixaban patients had a lower risk of recurrent VTE (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.61; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.47–0.81) and MB (HR: 0.63; 95% CI: 0.47–0.86) versus LMWH. Apixaban patients had a lower risk of recurrent VTE (HR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.52–0.90) and similar risk of MB (HR: 0.73; 95% CI: 0.53–1.00) versus warfarin. Warfarin patients had a similar risk of recurrent VTE (HR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.72–1.15) and MB (HR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.68–1.12) versus LMWH. The trends were similar for the entire follow-up; however, apixaban patients had a lower risk of MB versus warfarin patients.

Conclusion  Patients with VTE and active cancer who initiated apixaban had a lower risk of recurrent VTE and MB compared with LMWH patients. Apixaban patients also had a lower risk of recurrent VTE compared with warfarin patients.

Acute pulmonary embolism following recent hospitalization or surgery

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a major cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Recent hospitalization or surgery is a leading risk factor for PE, yet there are minimal data examining its effect on treatment and outcomes. We conducted a retrospective review of institutional billing codes for hospitalized patients with acute PE from August 2012 to August 2018. Patients were stratified based on whether they had a recent major medical encounter (MME), defined as surgery or hospitalization within 90 days. Primary outcomes included in-hospital mortality and 30- and 90-day readmission rates. Secondary outcomes included length of stay (LOS), use of advanced therapies, major bleeding, discharge anticoagulation and recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) at 90 days. Outcomes were adjusted for confounders using multivariable regression modeling. 2063 patients were hospitalized for an acute PE; 633 (30.7%) had a recent MME. Patients with a recent MME had a higher average Charlson Comorbidity Index (4.6 vs. 4.0, p < 0.01). Both 30- and 90-day readmission rates were higher in patients with a recent MME (21.7% vs. 14.4%; adjusted OR 1.06 [1.00, 1.12], p = 0.037; 30.8% vs 18.7%; adjusted OR 1.11 [1.11, 1.62], p = 0.003, respectively). After adjustment, there were no between-group differences in in-hospital mortality, LOS, use of advanced therapies, major bleeding, or recurrent VTE at 90 days. In-hospital mortality was higher for patients with a recent medical hospitalization compared to those with a recent surgery (10.2% vs. 5.6%, adjusted OR 1.08 [1.01, 1.15] p = 0.032). Despite recent hospitalization and/or surgery and greater number of comorbidities, patients admitted with a PE and recent MME had similar in-hospital outcomes, but experienced higher readmission rates. In-hospital mortality was higher in those with a recent medical compared to surgical encounter. Clinicians should optimize post-discharge transitional care in this subset of patients.

Efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants for secondary prevention of cancer associated thrombosis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) may be good alternatives to low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) or vitamin K antagonists (VKA) for treatment of cancer associated thrombosis (CAT). We conducted a meta-analysis of ten randomized clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DOACs in patients with CAT. All had study populations composed in entirety or in part of patients with CAT. The primary outcome (efficacy) was recurrent VTE and the secondary outcomes (safety outcomes) included major bleeding, clinically relevant non-major bleeding (CRNMB), and all bleeding (major bleeding + CRNMB). Participants treated with DOACs had lower risk of recurrent VTE, overall (RR 0.63; 95% CI 0.51-0.79; p < 0.0001), compared to LMWH (RR 0.57; 95% CI 0.40-0.83; p = 0.003), but not compared to VKA (RR 0.69; 95% CI 0.44-1.06; p = 0.09). Compared to LMWH, DOACs showed no difference in major bleeding risk (RR 1.31; 95% CI 0.78-2.18; p = 0.31), though had higher risk of CRNMB (RR 1.60; 95% CI 1.13-2.26; p = 0.008) and all bleeding (RR 1.49; 95% CI 1.10-2.01; p = 0.010). These results indicate that DOACs are more effective than LMWH for prevention of recurrent VTE with CAT though carry an increased risk for non-major bleeding compared to standard of care, LMWH.

Cancer-associated venous thromboembolism and the non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants: a review of clinical outcomes and patient perspectives

INTRODUCTION

Cancer-associated venous thromboembolism remains an important but challenging aspect in the treatment of patients with cancer. Recently, alternatives to injection of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) have been introduced, the non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs), which could potentially alleviate patients from burdensome daily injections.

AREAS COVERED

This review discusses the available evidence exploring the role of NOACs in the treatment and secondary prevention of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism, from randomized trials, observational data, contemporary guideline recommendations, and patient perspectives.

EXPERT OPINION

Edoxaban, rivaroxaban, and apixaban have proven attractive alternatives to LMWH for the treatment of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism. Contemporary guidelines have promptly endorsed the use of NOACs in patients with most cancer types. Nonetheless, issues remain regarding bleeding risk, interactions with medical cancer treatment, and the effectiveness and safety for extended treatment periods. There are head-to-head comparisons of the NOACs, and therefore no data favoring the use of one NOAC over the others. Patient's preferences are highly diverse and should be part of routine considerations when weighing risks and benefits associated with various available anticoagulant drugs.

Direct Oral Anticoagulant for the Treatment of VTE in Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Recent clinical guidelines suggest direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) as treatment for cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT), but the strength of such recommendations was not clear. Newly released trials add uncertainties to the benefit and risk assessment between DOACs and conventional therapy (low-molecular-weight heparin [LMWH] or vitamin K antagonists [VKAs]).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of DOACs in patients with CAT, as compared with LMWH and VKAs.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that reported outcomes of DOACs for treating CAT were included. Relative risk (RR), risk difference, and 95% CIs were pooled using the Mantel-Haenszel method.

RESULTS

A total of 8 RCTs were included. DOACs significantly reduced VTE recurrence (RR = 0.59; 95% CI = 0.48-0.73) compared with conventional therapy. Results were similar in the LMWH and VKA subgroups. DOACs had a higher, though nonsignificant, risk of major bleeding compared with LMWH (RR = 1.33; 95% CI = 0.94-1.89) but lower risk of major bleeding compared with VKAs (RR = 0.60; 95% CI = 0.39-0.93). Findings were consistent across patients with active cancer and history of cancer.

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

DOACs have better efficacy to prevent recurrent VTE compared with conventional therapy. Regarding the safety profile, DOACs may carry higher risk of bleeding compared with LMWH but lower risk of bleeding compared with VKAs. Further studies are needed to inform the optimal anticoagulation approach for different types of cancers.

Rivaroxaban compared to no treatment in ER-negative stage I-III early breast cancer patients (the TIP Trial): study protocol for a phase II preoperative window-of-opportunity study design randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer patients are at a four-fold increased risk of developing a venous thromboembolism (VTE), a major cause of death in this group. Conversely, coagulation factors promote tumour growth and metastasis. This has been evidenced in preclinical models, with an inhibitory effect of anticoagulants on cancer growth through proliferative, angiogenic, apoptotic, cancer stem cell and metastatic processes. The extrinsic clotting pathway is also more upregulated in patients in the relatively poorer prognosis oestrogen receptor (ER)-negative breast cancer subgroup, with increased tumour stromal expression of the coagulation factors Tissue Factor and thrombin. Rivaroxaban (Xarelto®, Bayer AG, Leverkusen, Germany) is a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC). It is a Factor Xa inhibitor that is routinely prescribed for the prevention of stroke in non-valvular atrial fibrillation and for both VTE prophylaxis and treatment. This trial will assess the anti-proliferative and other anti-cancer progression mechanisms of Rivaroxaban in ER-negative early breast cancer patients.

METHODS

This UK-based preoperative window-of-opportunity phase II randomised control trial will randomise 88 treatment-naïve early breast cancer patients to receive 20 mg OD Rivaroxaban treatment for 11 to 17 days or no treatment. Treatment will be stopped 24 h (range 18-36 h) prior to surgery or repeat core biopsy. All patients will be followed up for 2 weeks following surgery or repeat core biopsy. The primary endpoint is change in tumour Ki67. Secondary outcome measures include tumour markers of apoptosis and angiogenesis, extrinsic clotting pathway activation and systemic markers of metastasis, tumour load and coagulation.

DISCUSSION

Laboratory evidence supports an anti-cancer role for anticoagulants; however, this has failed to translate into survival benefit when trialled in patients with metastatic disease or poor prognosis cancers, such as lung cancer. Subgroup analysis supported a potential survival benefit in better prognosis advanced disease patients. This is the first study to investigate the anti-cancer effects of anticoagulants in early breast cancer.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

UK National Research Ethics Service (NRES) approval 15/NW/0406, MHRA Clinical Trials Authorisation 48380/0003/001-0001. The sponsor is Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, and the trial is co-ordinated by Cancer Research UK Liverpool Cancer Trials Unit (LCTU). EudraCT 2014-004909-33 , registered 27 July 2015. ISRCTN14785273 .

Comparative Effectiveness and Safety of Direct-acting Oral Anticoagulants and Warfarin in Patients with Venous Thromboembolism and Active Cancer: An Observational Analysis

PURPOSE

There is limited evidence to support the use of direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) and active cancer. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of DOACs versus warfarin for the prevention of recurrent VTE and major bleeding events in patients with VTE and active cancer.

METHODS

We identified patients with incident VTE and active cancer who newly initiated treatment with DOACs or warfarin from Truven Health MarketScan Commercial Claims and Medicare supplemental databases. Patients were followed up from treatment initiation (index date) until the occurrence of >7-day gap in treatment, the start of the study comparator, an outcome of interest (recurrent VTE or major bleeding), inpatient death, disenrollment, or end of the study period, whichever occurred first. We controlled for confounders via propensity score matching and estimated the hazard ratios (HRs) using Cox proportional hazards regression models.

FINDINGS

A total of 9952 patients were included in the matched cohort (4976 DOACs users and 4976 warfarin users). Patient characteristics were well balanced after matching. We observed a lower incidence of recurrent VTE (3 vs 5 per 100 person-years) and major bleeding events (2 vs 3 per 100 person-years) in the DOAC group compared to warfarin group, respectively. In Cox regression models, use of DOACs (vs warfarin) was associated with a lower risk of recurrent VTE (hazard ratio (HR), 0.59; 95% CI, 0.42-0.82) and major bleeding events (HR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.44-0.94).

IMPLICATIONS

On the basis of our findings, among patients with VTE and active cancer, DOACs offer superior effectiveness with a lower risk of bleeding when compared with warfarin for the secondary prevention of VTE.

Adherence to postoperative thromboprophylactic medication among gynecologic oncology patients: A subanalysis

INTRODUCTION

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among gynecologic cancer patients, especially in the immediate postoperative period. We sought to identify patterns related with patient non-adherence to postoperative prophylactic anticoagulation.

METHODS

Participant data (N = 400) were reviewed from a previously conducted randomized controlled trial comparing the safety and efficacy of prophylactic postoperative anticoagulation with enoxaparin versus apixaban among gynecologic oncology patients. Variables hypothesized to be related to medication adherence were pre-selected by the study authors, and adherence was defined as missing ≤2 days of medication (4 pills or 2 injections) in 28 days postoperatively. For univariate comparisons and multivariate modeling, the threshold for statistical significance was set at p < .05.

RESULTS

Non-adherence (N = 64) was associated with lower quality of life (QOL) score, history of anxiety disorder, decreased medication satisfaction, taking more medications at baseline, higher baseline heart rate, fewer total intraoperative procedures, not undergoing radical hysterectomy and/or lymph node dissection, not meeting 2-week postoperative milestones, and 28-day emergency department (ED) visit or readmission. African American race, lower mental QOL, difficulty remembering to take medication, and 28-day ED visit or readmission were predictive of non-adherence in a multivariate model. Patients taking enoxaparin versus apixaban more frequently attributed non-adherence to pain or bruising (25.0% vs. 3.1%, P = .01).

CONCLUSION

Our findings provide new insights into factors associated with medication adherence that are particularly relevant to gynecologic oncology patients after surgery. Preoperative interventions to identify patients with these risk factors for more intensive followup of postoperative anticoagulation regimen may help increase medication adherence.

First-Line Therapies for VTE Treatment and Secondary Prophylaxis in Patients With Cancer: A New Direction

Objective:

To review evidence behind anticoagulants in cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE) with a focus on low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWH) and the role of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs).

Data Sources:

PubMed was searched using terms “venous thromboembolism,” “cancer,” and “anticoagulation.” This search was restricted to clinical trials, meta-analyses, and subgroup analyses. Additional references were identified from reviewing literature citations.

Study Selection:

English-language prospective and retrospective studies assessing the efficacy and safety of LMWH and DOACs in patients with cancer.

Data Analysis:

Several trials were analyzed that compared anticoagulation therapies for prevention of recurrent VTE in patients with cancer. Many studies comparing LMWH and vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) found nonsignificant differences between therapies. A single study demonstrated that LMWHs are superior to VKAs. This evidence supporting LMWH for long-term VTE treatment in patients with cancer is based on comparison to VKA, but results are limited by methodological issues, and the benefit of LMWH may be driven by poor control. Subanalyses of DOAC trials suggest these are equally or more effective as VKA in cancer, but this conclusion is underpowered.

Conclusion:

DOACs have the potential to bypass many challenges with traditional therapy. After analyzing the evidence available, we conclude that after careful consideration of risks and benefits, use of DOACs for VTE treatment are a reasonable option in patients with cancer.

Factors Influencing the Choice between DOACs and LMWHs: A Survey of German Physicians on the Treatment of Cancer-Associated Venous Thromboembolism

Recently direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have become a new therapeutic option besides parenteral anticoagulants to treat cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE). With this survey we wanted to identify factors influencing the choice between low-molecular-weight heparin and DOACs among physicians treating cancer patients. A questionnaire was presented at several medical educational activities on cancer care and VTE management between August 2018 and January 2019. One hundred fifteen physicians returned their surveys. The two most compelling arguments pro DOAC were when the patient had no chemotherapy and when he expressed unwillingness to apply injections. The two most important arguments against DOACs were if the patient had problems with taking oral medications or when he had a history of severe bleeding. This survey shows that future studies need to consider many more factors, particularly patient preferences and physician concerns on bleeding risk, to improve their applicability in daily practice.

Rivaroxaban Versus Low-molecular-weight Heparin for Venous Thromboembolism in Advanced Upper Gastrointestinal Tract and Hepatopancreatobiliary Cancer

BACKGROUND/AIM

The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants for cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with active cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study included patients with advanced unresectable/metastatic upper gastrointestinal (GI) or hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) cancers with high risks of VTE and bleeding.

RESULTS

No significant differences were noted in potential bleeding factors between the rivaroxaban (n=105) and low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) (n=69) groups. Rivaroxaban exhibited similar risk of recurrent/aggravated VTE compared with LMWH (p=0.625) but increased risk of major bleeding (17.4% vs. 7.6%; p=0.072), clinically relevant bleeding (31.9% vs. 14.3%; p=0.019), and total bleeding (40.6% vs. 19%; p=0.010). The multivariate analysis regarded rivaroxaban as a significant factor for major bleeding (p=0.043) and clinically relevant bleeding (p=0.043).

CONCLUSION

Rivaroxaban exhibits comparable efficacy but increases bleeding risks compared with LMWH in patients with active unresectable/metastatic upper GI tract or HPB cancers, requiring extra caution of higher major bleeding risks.

Efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants versus low-molecular-weight heparin in patients with cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) versus low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) are still debated in the treatment of patients with cancer, and the optimal duration of therapy remains uncertain. Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library) were searched to retrieve studies on the efficacy and safety of DOACs versus LMWH in treating patients with cancer from January 1980 to October 2018. The primary efficacy and safety endpoints were recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) and major bleeding. Our study included two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and nine observational studies, together comprising 4509 patients with cancer. The pooled estimates indicated that DOACs led to a modest reduction recurrent VTE in the RCTs [RR: 0.63, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.42-0.96, P = 0.03] and in the observational studies (RR: 0.74, 95% CI, 0.58-0.93, P = 0.011), without increasing the risk of major bleeding for observational studies (P = 0.805), but increased for RCTs (P = 0.017). The same trends were observed in the rivaroxaban subgroup. Moreover, subgroup analyses according to the treatment duration indicated that DOACs significantly reduced the incidence of recurrent VTE (P = 0.006 at 6 months; P < 0.001 at 12 months) without significant differences in major bleeding compared with LMWH at 6 or 12 months. Patients with cancer who received DOACs exhibited a significant reduction in recurrent VTE with no increased risk of major bleeding compared with LMWH. DOACs may be an alternative choice for long-term anticoagulant therapy in patients with cancer.

Management of cancer-related thrombosis in the era of direct oral anticoagulants: A comprehensive review of the 2019 ITAC-CME clinical practice guidelines. On behalf of the Groupe Francophone Thrombose et Cancer (GFTC)

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common disease complication in cancer patients and the second cause of death after cancer progression. VTE management and prophylaxis are critical in cancer patients, but effective therapy can be challenging because these patients are at higher risk of VTE recurrence and bleeding under anticoagulant treatment. Numerous published studies report inconsistent implementation of existing evidence-based clinical practice guidelines (CPG), including underutilization of thromboprophylaxis, and wide variability in clinical practice patterns across different countries and various practitioners. This review aims to summarize the 2019 ITAC-CME evidence-based CPGs for treatment and prophylaxis of cancer-related VTE, which include recommendations on the use of direct oral anticoagulants specifically in cancer patients. The guidelines underscore the gravity of developing VTE in cancer and recommend the best approaches for treating and preventing cancer-associated VTE, while minimizing unnecessary or over-treatment. Greater adherence to the 2019 ITAC guidelines could substantially decrease the burden of VTE and improve survival of cancer patients.

Apixaban and dalteparin in active malignancy-associated venous thromboembolism: The ADAM VTE trial

BACKGROUND

Low-molecular-weight heparin is the guideline-endorsed treatment for cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE). While apixaban is approved for the treatment of acute VTE, limited data support its use in cancer patients.

OBJECTIVES

The primary outcome was major bleeding. Secondary outcomes included VTE recurrence and a composite of major plus clinically relevant non-major bleeding (CRNMB).

PATIENTS/METHODS

Patients with cancer-associated VTE were randomly assigned to receive either apixaban 10 mg twice daily for seven days followed by 5 mg twice daily for six months or subcutaneous dalteparin (200 IU/kg for one month followed by 150 IU/kg once daily).

RESULTS

Of 300 patients randomized, 287 were included in the primary analysis. Metastatic disease was present in 66% of subjects; 74% were receiving concurrent chemotherapy. Major bleeding occurred in 0% of 145 patients receiving apixaban, compared with 1.4% of 142 patients receiving dalteparin [P = .138; hazard ratio (HR) not estimable because of 0 bleeding event in apixaban group]. Recurrent VTE occurred in 0.7% of apixaban, compared to 6.3% of dalteparin patients [HR 0.099, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.013-0.780, P = .0281). Major bleeding or CRNMB rates were 6% for both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral apixaban was associated with low major bleeding and VTE recurrence rates for the treatment of VTE in cancer patients.